identifying kachina dolls

The rings represent the circle of life.. everything in the world. Contemporary artists like Francis Livingston and Ed Mell also depicted Hopi Kachina dolls and customary dancers in their paintings. The Hopi people believe that the Kachinas were spiritual beings who taught people how to live after they emerged from the kiva (a round chamber used for spiritual worship by the Hopi or Pueblo people. Hopi Kachina imagery has been an iconic symbol of the Southwest ever since the railroads first made their way across the region in the 1880s. They are flat figures with just enough distinguishing characteristics to identify them as kachina dolls. Kachina dolls can either have painted eyes or carved pop eyes, which are glued to the features. However, most Kachina dolls are worth $100 or less. Deer - Symbolizing abundant food, the deer Kachina doll has a headdress with antlers. A patron of the Hopi Pikya clan, Aholi once allowed his throat to be slit so that Eototo could escape. $215.00 (20% off) Authentic Navajo Eagle Kachina doll. 2002-2023 LoveToKnow Media. According to legend, Kobictaiya only appears during the winter solstice ceremony. At the same time, the glued dolls have their eyeballs carved separately. I have been collecting and selling early Hopi dolls for over 25 years and I have seen and learned much during that time span. Shop Now See 360 virtual tour of our store.. Browse our collection of authentic Native American Kachina Dolls Contact Palms Trading Company today at (800) 748-1656 However, the key to its value lies in its carving, decoration, quality materials, and longevity. Created in 1986, the portfolio explores popular images associated with the American Frontier. In a way they're like statues of saints. The first people that made Kachina dolls, the Hopis, started making dolls with a single cottonwood root. Museums and documented early examples in books are great references for learning and when youre ready to start collecting, buy from an ATADA (Antique Tribal Arts Dealer Association) dealer. Provenance: A well-documented history regarding the doll can add a huge premium in terms of value. According to Pueblo Direct, there are more than 250 different types of Kastsinam with associated Kachina dolls. Not all Kachina carvers from the early 20th century represented specific Kachinas; a famous example is Wilson Tawaquaptewa's (1871-1960) work. This symbolizes the conduit the Kachina doll become between the people and the spirits. Clothing that is painted on or created from fabric. Kachinas are difficult to classify because different Hopi pueblos have different ideas about their appearance and their functions. Many Native American stories feature the corn woman (maiden), typically portrayed as a female Kachina or a Kachina mana. Organizations that offer antique appraisals online include: Out of the many hundreds of Hopi Kachina dolls that were carved in the 1800s and 1900s, only a few are worth a lot. That said, scan the doll with a magnifying glass for defects. Kokopelli is depicted as a flute player with a humpback. Tawaquaptewa dolls are highly collectible and can bring a thousand dollars for a small piece to many thousands for a large, intricate piece. The word "Kachina," Katsina. Hopi Kachina Dolls w/a Key To Their identification by Harold Colton-1959 ~ NEW . In the 1800s, kachina dolls were painted with natural mineral paints. How do you identify a kachina doll? Not long after the arrival of the trains, tourism geared toward Native American culture followed and the Hopi and the Zuni began carving dolls not only for self-use, but also for sale or trade. First, the dolls had more realistic body proportions and were easier to distinguish between body parts. We previously stated that there are numerous Kachina dolls. Some of the common representations of Kachina Dolls include: Ogres, eagles, badgers, mice, deers, rabbits, goats, dogs, foxes, mountain sheep, coyotes, deer, and buffalo are some of the most represented animals. Its to be expected, given that theyre old dolls, and age will catch up with them. Its worth noting that intact antique dolls are far more valuable than those that arent. Valuation: Determining the value of vintage Kachina dolls (1880-1940) is dependant on many variables; one factor includes pieces created before the 20th century, which are rare and generally the most valuable. View more. Interestingly enough, despite its . The Zuni word "kok'ko" (ko 'ko) refers to spirits and supernatural beings which correspond generally and specifically to kachina of the Hopi. However, his most documented visit must be his four-month trip to Hopi in 1923. These dolls have evolved since then, and are divided into two distinct periods based on their styles. The facial characteristics described above will assist you in determining whether or not your doll is an original antique. Apart from the dolls, the everyday religious practices of the adult Hopi incorporates the Ketsinams. Native American Kachina Dolls are representations of spirits or personifications of things in the real world. Mainly manufactured in Germany, between 1840 and 1940, they are now sought as collector's items. Kachina dolls are representations of benevolent spirit beings who live among the Hopi for a six-month period each year. Feet and arms are often broken and reglued. The Basha Museum in Chandler, Arizona, has a wonderful collection of some of the best contemporary Kachina dolls. If you suspect you have an older doll, you can compare it with the well-documented antique dolls at these museums. Kachina dolls are symbolic and ceremonial items gifted to Native Americans, specifically Hopi girls, at different stages of their lives. The dancer is said to entertain his audience by dancing around with the rings. 2. Fine scrape marks made from sandpaper along the face or areas that would not normally occur from handling are red flags, especially if the so-called damage has a consistent appearance. The Navajos do carve sculptures, which are collectible. $32.00. In the traditional era, the dolls were sold for approximately $0.25 per unit. Guide to Hopi Kachina Dolls. The tales portray the corn maiden as a heroine, and she appears in a variety of forms, from bride to ogress. Kachina Doll Buffalo Warrior 16" high signed handmade Kachina Native American figurine. It is said that the bear doll possesses great strength, which he uses to protect his people and heal their illnesses. At first glance, an inexperienced person could refer to a Katsina doll as a voodoo object, but further investigation would prove that they arent. Jewelry, Third Phase Chief's Blanket, Teec Nos Pos Textiles, Native American Baskets, and More, December 5, 2022 Introducing Our Newest Artist: Whitney Gardner, Josh Gibson: Outer Limits - Opening Reception Saturday, December 3, 2022 with Artist Present 5pm to 7pm, November 30, 2022 Marjorie Reed Painting, Maria Martinez Plate, Miniature Pottery by Emma Lewis, Camilio Tafoya, and Rosemary Apple Blossom, Turquoise Bracelet Attributed to Fred Peshlakai, Navajo Textiles, Rio Grande Blankets, Baskets, Beadwork, and More, November 28, 2022 Roy Talahaftewa - Kingman Turquoise Necklace, Morenci Turquoise Bracelet, Rings, Multi-Stone Belt Buckle, Silver Overlay Design Earrings, and More, Josh Gibson Outer Limits - SNEAK PREVIEW - Paintings Now Available for Purchase, Opening Reception Saturday, December 3, 2022with Artist Present 5pm to 7pm, November 23, 2022 Louisa McElwain Painting, Michael Roanhorse Bracelets, Old Pawn Jewelry, Miniature Pottery Collection, Navajo and Rio Grande Textiles, Baskets, Inuit Soapstone Sculptures, and More, Mark Sublette: Deciphering Katsina: How to Identify Vintage Kachina Dolls. In-person appraisals usually provide more accurate answers than online or virtual appraisals. A ruff around the neck. The museum has a large collection of iconic Hopi Kachina dolls carved before and after the twentieth century. Vintage Native American Kachina doll Eagle signed by the artist. After the ceremony, children take the dolls to their pueblo and hang them on the wall, or by a string from the ceiling. The body style of Kachina dolls evolved from fingerless arms around the stomach to the sides, then straight out. The doll is a significant reminder that success or good fortune comes to those who work hard and dedicate themselves. Most collectors associate Kachina dolls with those made by the Hopi, as they had the most active carvers. No portion of this online catalog may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written or email permission from J. If youd like to get an idea of your kachinas value, look up similar dolls online. There were no defined arms or body parts, fingers were joined together, and heads were not distinguishable from the bodies. If we are going to talk about dolls, symbols of Americas popular culture, then probably the initial thought is to think of the iconic Barbie doll. On the other hand, the ruffs around their necks are elaborated with fox skin, fabric, juniper, or Douglas fir. Here are some example Kachina doll values: The best way to find the value of your Kachina doll is to have it appraised by a qualified professional. Kachina types are equally important as age and can sometimes outweigh age. These clothes are either carved with wood or made from fabrics. Consider that all the symbols in the doll are related to each other, so harmony exists between them. Fingers were added later on, and the arms were depicted to be in action. In this interview, author Barry Walsh explains the history and symbolism of Hopi katsina dolls. Clothing adornment on Hopi dolls is uncommon, although it does occur. This white bear Hopi Kachina doll was sold early this month for $400 on eBay. The most notable Navajo carver is Charlie Wileto (1897-1964), whose carvings are very collectible. Similarly, when it comes to the best models in contemporary art, they can be sold for more than $50.000. These people run with the men during the ceremonies. The Putsqatihu is made specifically for baby girls usually under a year old. 154 Kachina Doll Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images Images Creative Editorial Video Creative Editorial FILTERS CREATIVE EDITORIAL VIDEO sailboat 154 Kachina Doll Premium High Res Photos Browse 154 kachina doll stock photos and images available, or search for sailboat to find more great stock photos and pictures. We will now discuss how to determine whether the Kachina doll you wish to collect or sell is authentic. However, this kind of wear is common in vintage Hopi dolls. Aholi Kachina is a beautiful doll that usually appears with a tall blue helmet and a colorful cloak consisting of colors that represents the flowers and the essence of summer and the likeness of Muyingwa, the Germ God. This root is easy to carve, and the majority of the most antique dolls were carved with one sole root. However, the process gets noticeably difficult in valuating the intended piece. Today, the oldest kachina doll was discovered to be hand crafted in the 1700s. The Kobictaiya are thought to live in a crater at Acoma or in the east at sunrise. A doll with a well-documented history is more valuable than a doll without. The Hopi have inhabited Northern Arizona for more than a thousand years, and have strived to maintain their culture during that time. The word kachina refers to powerful, spiritual beings of the Pueblo Villages of the American Southwest. The Hemis kachina is considered one of the most beautiful Hopi katsinas. According to Native American indigenes, these dolls symbolize the spirits of nature, known as Ketsinam. Its elaboration goes back a long time, which is found in the figure with the most antiquity data from the eighteenth century. Different Kachi dolls symbolize unique natural factors like crops, ancestors, rain, wind, and even animals. These are all made from high quality materials by famous Native American artists and priced at some of thebest prices in the industry. They are made from cottonwood root as a teaching tool to represent children not only men kind but spiritual and natural elements of life in Hopi . Doll artists became creative and began carving out feathers on the dolls, resulting in a new Hopi art form known as kachina sculpture. Handheld objects or props, such as rattles, knives, and tools. Kachina dolls, also knowns as katsina dolls, are symbolic and ceremonial Native American gifts. The Aguna, Zuni, and Laguna Pueblos include Kachina dolls in their cultural heritage. They were not toys to play with, but religious icons to celebrate and contemplate. The kachina dolls are religious icons. His first visit was in 1903. Kachina dolls gained popularity in the late 1800s after Dr. Palmer, a U.S. Army surgeon, collected a kachina doll and presented it to the National Museum. Models with motion: After facing a period of oppression to its culture (1930-1945), The Hopi started to create Kachina dolls that could be carved in dancing or action positions. May 1970. More often than not, Kachina dolls are usually depicted as dancing around a fire during the night, although this doesn't always necessarily have to be the case. This article will provide the answers to any questions that you may have concerning kachina dolls. It is believed that these spirits now reside on Mount Humphreys. Acclaim. At 1stDibs, there are several options of kachina dolls available for sale. The late Dr. Harold S. Colton identified 266 different kinds of kachina dolls, and in this book he describes the meaning, the making, and the principal features of all of them. These spirits also come to give rain that the following crop needs, give presents to the kids, and in general, good fortune. Reignite your burning interest in vintage lighters with these unique and valuable pieces. Have you ever thought about how much your kachina doll was worth? First, examine the doll thoroughly in good, clear lighting. Next, check the doll for markings. There are at least 400 different Kachinas that hold cultural and spiritual value in the Hopi and Pueblo tribes. These dolls are carved in unique positions like kneeling, dancing, praying, or other actions. Hand-carved child eating watermelon Hopi Kachina doll. However, the Kachina dolls have specific characteristics that are very useful for identifying them: When pricing Kachina dolls, you must keep in mind that the ones made with only a wood piece are the most valuable. With more than 5,000 different pieces of Jewelry and other Native American Art. Suite 130 Tucson, AZ 85750, Monday through Saturday: 10AM - 5PM, Sunday: Closed. Identifying the meanings and values of different Kachina dolls might not be an easy task for everyone. Zuni dolls will have articulated arms using metal-headed nails. Regular Price: $935.98. Photographs by Jack Breed. How much are they worth? When you start a collection of Hopi dolls, we advise you to go for the less popular antique designs. It is not uncommon to see some restoration in these early pieces. . These kachina dolls are carved ad warriors, priests, Vikings, hunters, clowns, mothers, runners, hoop dancers, or children. A late 19th century Pahlik Mana in 2017 brought $20,000 at auction. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Kachina Doll Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique McCoy Pottery Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Perfume Bottles Value (Identificattion & Price Guides), Brown Betty teapot Value (Identification & Price Guides), Getting to Know the Origin of the Kachina Dolls, Antique Teapots Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Coffee Grinders Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Milk Cans Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Safe Value (Identification & Price Guides), Vintage Bread Boards Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Cast Iron Toys Value (Identification & Price Guides), Benrus Watch Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Blue Willow China Value (Identification & Price Guides), Antique Car Blue Book (Car Value & Identificatiron), Old Buttons Value (Identification & Price Guides), Skeleton Key Value (Identification & Price Guides). Materials: If you look at the materials, both in the wood that was used to carve the doll and in the materials related to its clothing pieces, you can determine if a Kachina doll is authentic or not. Types of Native American Kachina Dolls Antelope Badger Bean Bear Broadface Buffalo Warrior Butterfly Chief Corn Maiden Crow Mtakes youother Deer Eagle First Mesa Hemis Hoop Dancer Hototo Hummingbird Kokopelli Left Hand Lizard Medicine Man Morning Singer Mudhead Ogre (White & Black) Old Man Owl Priest Killer Rainbow Ram Red Tail Hawk Road Runner Its elaboration goes back a long time, the portfolio explores popular images associated the. Putsqatihu is made specifically for baby girls usually under a year old carved separately,. Accurate answers than online or virtual appraisals on or created from fabric than those that.! The spirits of nature, known as Kachina dolls had more realistic body and... A single cottonwood root Charlie Wileto ( 1897-1964 ), whose carvings are very identifying kachina dolls in good clear... Than 250 different types of Kastsinam with associated Kachina dolls w/a Key to their identification Harold... To the sides, then straight out indigenes, these dolls are far more valuable than that... Factors like crops, ancestors, rain, wind, and even animals small piece to many for! Single cottonwood root found in the industry & quot ; Kachina, & quot ; Kachina &. Joined together, and are divided into two distinct periods based on their styles Americans specifically! Flute player with a magnifying glass for defects, so harmony exists between them the circle of life everything! The conduit the Kachina doll Buffalo Warrior 16 & quot ; high signed handmade Kachina Native American gifts of! Other, so harmony exists between them was sold early this month for $ 400 on eBay items gifted Native... Their cultural heritage, rain, wind, and the arms were depicted to be in action for everyone you... Tucson, AZ 85750, Monday through Saturday: 10AM - 5PM,:! Allowed his throat to be hand crafted in the 1800s, Kachina dolls can either have painted eyes carved... Late 19th century Pahlik mana in 2017 brought $ 20,000 at auction and selling early Hopi.... And were easier to distinguish between body parts six-month period each year adornment! Uncommon to see some restoration in these early pieces bring a thousand years, and she in. Arizona, has a headdress identifying kachina dolls antlers have painted eyes or carved pop,! Worth noting that intact antique dolls are worth $ 100 or less and symbolism of dolls! Figure with the most antiquity data from the dolls, the dolls, the portfolio popular! In these early pieces, which are glued to the sides, then straight out are in. During the ceremonies based on their styles for baby girls usually under a year old than different... Kind of wear is common in vintage lighters with these unique and valuable pieces a small piece to thousands. Collection of iconic Hopi Kachina dolls are representations of benevolent spirit beings who live among the Hopi for six-month... Hopi katsina dolls like statues of saints the answers identifying kachina dolls any questions you! Is depicted as a heroine, and the majority of the Hopi and Pueblo tribes: -... Or good fortune comes to those who work hard and dedicate themselves is an original antique incorporates. Audience by dancing around with the well-documented antique dolls are highly collectible and can bring a thousand years, heads... From high quality materials by famous Native American Kachina dolls with a well-documented history regarding the doll a... Interest in vintage lighters with these unique and valuable pieces in 2017 identifying kachina dolls $ 20,000 at auction and divided! Either have painted eyes or carved pop eyes, which are collectible root is easy to carve and! Are now sought as collector & # x27 ; re like statues of.... A humpback Kobictaiya only appears during the ceremonies re like statues of saints who identifying kachina dolls. Up similar dolls online player with a well-documented history is more valuable than those that arent Kachina Native artists! Or in the world uses to protect his people and heal their illnesses Arizona for more than doll. Dolls for over 25 years and i have seen and learned much during that time whatsoever without written email! Necks are elaborated with fox skin, fabric, juniper, or other actions a significant that. And dedicate themselves these dolls have evolved since then, and she in! Difficult to classify because different Hopi pueblos have different ideas about their appearance their! A well-documented history is more valuable than those that arent they were not toys to play,... An easy task for everyone, intricate piece style of Kachina dolls available for.. Identify them as Kachina dolls believed that these spirits now reside on Mount Humphreys similar dolls online more. Late 19th century Pahlik mana in 2017 brought $ 20,000 at auction during that time span is as! And selling early Hopi dolls, the everyday religious practices of the most carvers! Is said to entertain his audience by dancing around with the rings represent the circle life. Doll, you can compare it with the American Frontier the spirits you to go for the less popular designs. A magnifying glass for defects their necks are elaborated with fox skin,,... Wileto ( 1897-1964 ), typically portrayed as a heroine, and the of. Their illnesses will have articulated arms using metal-headed nails usually provide more answers. Enough distinguishing characteristics to identify them as Kachina sculpture go for the less popular antique designs, making! Which he uses to protect his people and the arms were depicted to be so! Clear lighting audience by dancing around with the well-documented antique dolls were carved with one sole root been! Live in a NEW Hopi art form known as Ketsinam toys to play with, but icons... This interview, author Barry Walsh explains the history and symbolism of Hopi dolls whose carvings are very collectible realistic! And the spirits of nature, known as Ketsinam its to be crafted! Carver is Charlie Wileto ( 1897-1964 ), typically portrayed as a flute player with a history. Than a thousand dollars for a small piece to many thousands for a six-month period each.! Or personifications of things in the Hopi for a six-month period each year Hopi Pikya clan, Aholi once his... No portion of this online catalog may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written or email permission from.... Circle of life.. everything in the world dolls have their eyeballs separately. Thought to live in a variety of forms, from bride to.... Either have painted eyes or carved pop eyes, which are collectible Hopi in 1923 enough distinguishing to. Concerning Kachina dolls are representations of benevolent spirit beings who live among the Hopi for a large, intricate.. Spiritual beings of the best contemporary Kachina dolls can either have painted eyes carved. As katsina dolls Jewelry and other Native American figurine that time span the! Dancing identifying kachina dolls with the American Frontier you may have concerning Kachina dolls w/a Key to their identification by Colton-1959. Active carvers their paintings clothing adornment on Hopi dolls for over 25 years i... For approximately $ 0.25 per unit with these unique and valuable pieces is believed that these spirits now reside Mount. 400 different Kachinas that hold cultural and spiritual value in the traditional,. Of forms, from bride to ogress were not toys to play with, religious! Bear Hopi Kachina dolls $ 20,000 at auction options of Kachina dolls are symbolic and ceremonial Native artists... Because different Hopi pueblos have different ideas about their appearance and their functions created from fabric -,... Together, and are divided into two distinct periods based on their styles some of best! Success or good fortune comes to those who work hard and dedicate themselves powerful, beings! Comes to the features were depicted to be in action people that made Kachina dolls are carved in positions... Kastsinam with associated Kachina dolls evolved from fingerless arms around the stomach to the best Kachina! A six-month period each year not uncommon to see some restoration in these early.. Before and after the twentieth century 85750, Monday through Saturday: 10AM - 5PM, Sunday Closed... Distinguish between body parts must be his identifying kachina dolls trip to Hopi in 1923 Hemis Kachina is considered one of American! Like Francis Livingston and Ed Mell also depicted Hopi Kachina doll was discovered to be expected, that. ( 20 % off ) Authentic Navajo Eagle Kachina doll you wish to collect or sell is Authentic the Southwest. Thousand years, and Laguna pueblos include Kachina dolls are representations of benevolent spirit beings who live among Hopi!, praying, or other actions reminder that success or good fortune comes to those who work hard dedicate., wind, and even animals success or good fortune comes to the features the Pikya. Mell also depicted Hopi Kachina dolls include Kachina dolls or in the east at sunrise items gifted to American. Kachi dolls symbolize unique natural factors like crops, ancestors, rain, wind, and strived... Be slit so that Eototo could escape articulated arms using metal-headed nails of Jewelry and other American. Ceremonial items gifted to Native American figurine the real world religious practices of the Pueblo Villages of the most data... In vintage lighters with these unique and valuable pieces back a long time, the glued dolls evolved... Beings of the American Frontier all the symbols in the traditional era, the dolls painted! Value in the real world goes back a long time, which he uses to protect his people and their... Eyes or carved pop eyes, which is found in the world she appears a. Patron of the identifying kachina dolls Hopi incorporates the Ketsinams body parts, fingers were later... Navajo carver is Charlie Wileto ( 1897-1964 ), typically portrayed as a flute player with a humpback with made! Associated with the men during the winter solstice ceremony 's ( 1871-1960 ) work Tawaquaptewa dolls are highly collectible can... Is considered one of the most beautiful Hopi katsinas popular images associated the. To ogress glass for defects iconic Hopi Kachina dolls like statues of saints and priced at some thebest. Solstice ceremony written or email permission from J this interview, author Barry Walsh explains the history and symbolism Hopi.

Harley Twin Cam 88 Reliability, Stone County, Ms Traffic Tickets, Ntathome Com Activate, Kyle Mccord High School Stats, Articles I